7 Myths about ADHD (Attention Deficiency Syndrome and Hyperactivity)
At first glance, it looks like people suffering from ADHD, who do not recognize any rules and norms, do something wrong every second, are badly brought up. It seems that they just need to be told how to behave. But the problem is that explanations do not work. People with ADHD know the rules very well. But when they need to apply them in a situation filled with emotions — they quickly forget about all the rules and choose the easiest and most stupid solution.
ADHD — attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a disorder that is surrounded by myths. There are not tens of them, but hundreds and thousands. Let us look at the main ones.
Myth #1. ADHD is Just a Justification for Poor Behavior
Fact — ADHD has been accepted by a psychiatric association, The National Institutes of Health and the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. Brain research shows that ADHD affects many areas of the brain.
- Prefrontal cortex and cerebellum — participate in attention concentration, judgment, organization, planning, and impulse control.
- Anterior cingulate cortex — participates in shifting attention.
- The temporal lobes are responsible for memory, learning, and emotional reactions.
- Basal nuclei participate in the synthesis of a neurotransmitter, dopamine, which controls the prefrontal cortex.
- The deep limbic system is related to emotional perception, tonus, and networking.
This is the reason why ADHD has a natural negative effect on learning, behavior, and emotions.
Myth #2: ADHD is Only Common in Boys
The fact is that contrary to popular belief, not all people with this condition are hyperactive. Despite this, boys are diagnosed approximately three times more with ADHD than girls. A similar situation is seen with autism. ADHD also affects girls and women. One of the most general conditions is known under the name Inattentive ADD. Many of these kids, teens, and adults are unfairly called lazy, unmotivated, or slow. Inattentive ADHD is more common in girls than in boys.
Myth #3: ADHD is not a Problem at All
The fact is that without special treatment or when people with ADHD are poorly treated, it may become a severe social problem. People with ADHD often suffer from eating disorders, have bad habits (adrenaline, drugs, alcohol), may have suicidal thoughts, be dependent on others, or live as victims.
Myth #4: People with ADHD should Try more
The fact is that no effort can change their behavior. This is the same as asking a person who needs glasses to just see. This is a different brain, and it works a bit differently.
Myth #5: Each Patient Grows out of ADHD at the Age of 12 or 13
The fact is that people never "grow out" of ADHD and live their whole lives with the symptoms. To live within the community and function with others, they need to put a lot of effort! It is essential to learn how to plan and prioritize.
Myth #6: Medicinal Treatment is the Best Treatment for ADHD
The fact is that therapy can be very effective when it is prescribed correctly, and especially when it is part of the complex approach, which includes learning, support, physical exercise, bio-individual diet, and personalized food supplements and drugs (when needed). Suppose you or your child experience ADHD-related symptoms. In that case, it is essential to undergo a complete check-up to make sure that you are receiving the correct therapy.
Myth #7: «They do not control themselves — they are ill and, therefore, they should be excused»
The fact is that this belief is very harmful. To excuse everything is to leave the person in the chaotic world without any boundaries and directions. This is the same as leaving him in the middle of Kuala-Lumpur or Beijing without money, documents, a dictionary, a credit card, or a phone. How is he supposed to understand where to go, what to do, and how to live? The solution to the ADHD problem is clear rules, schemes, algorithms, and constant feedback from loved ones.